Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Brave no longer includes its former built-in IPFS node or native ipfs:// handling: support was deprecated in version 1.69.153 on August 22, 2024. You can still open IPFS content in Brave through an HTTP gateway, or pair the browser with an external IPFS node and the IPFS Companion extension.
What changed in Brave’s IPFS support?
Brave ended its built-in local-node and native ipfs:// protocol support in version 1.69.153, released August 22, 2024. Brave said less than 0.1% of its users used the feature and that support and maintenance costs were too high to bear alone. That figure describes use of Brave’s feature, not IPFS usage overall. Brave’s announcement also notes that basic redirection of ipfs:// links to a gateway can be configured at build time, and points to longer-term WebExtensions plans.
Choose how you want to use IPFS in Brave
| Option | Setup | Best for | Trust and privacy considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public HTTP gateway | Open a gateway URL; no local node or extension required. | Reading content identified by a CID. | The gateway operator handles the request and may associate your IP address with the requested CID. |
| IPFS Companion with a local node | Install and run IPFS Desktop or Kubo, then install IPFS Companion in Brave and allow it to connect to the node. | Using IPFS-aware links and managing or providing content through your own node. | Reduces reliance on a remote gateway, but requires running node software. It is not a universal privacy guarantee. |
The practical choice is between convenience and running your own software: a gateway gives you a simple HTTP route, while a local node makes you a network participant and enables local management.
Open an IPFS link with a public gateway
A CID, or content identifier, names content by its content-addressed identity. A gateway provides the HTTP route that lets an ordinary browser request that content. The IPFS documentation describes gateway URLs in the form https://<gateway>/ipfs/<CID>. Replace <gateway> with a gateway address and <CID> with the identifier you were given, then open the completed URL in Brave. IPFS gateway documentation explains how gateways work.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Get the CID for the content you want to view.
- Choose an HTTP gateway you trust.
- Enter
https://<gateway>/ipfs/<CID>in Brave’s address bar, using the actual gateway hostname and CID.
This is a read-through-a-gateway workflow, not a way to run an IPFS node or publish and manage content locally. The gateway operator is making the network request on your behalf. IPFS documentation warns that a public gateway may collect visitor IP addresses and associate them with requested CIDs. IPFS privacy documentation describes this exposure.
Use IPFS Companion with an external node
For local-node integration in Brave, use IPFS Companion with a separately installed node such as IPFS Desktop or Kubo. Companion is available for Chromium-based browsers, including Brave, and its full functionality requires a local node. The extension uses an external Kubo daemon rather than embedding a node in the browser. IPFS Companion and the IPFS node types guide describe this arrangement.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Install IPFS Desktop or Kubo and start the node. IPFS Desktop bundles a node with tools for managing files, peers, and content. IPFS Desktop installation documentation provides its setup details.
- Install IPFS Companion in Brave from the extension’s supported distribution channel.
- Allow or configure Companion to connect to your running local node, following the extension’s connection prompts and documentation.
- Open an IPFS or IPNS link. Companion can recognize these links and route requests through the local gateway associated with the node.
Exact installation screens and connection prompts can change by software version. If Companion cannot connect, first confirm that the external node is running, then check the extension’s connection settings and node documentation.
Reading a CID is different from publishing or keeping content available
Opening a CID through a gateway only requests content. It does not add that content to your node, pin it, or ensure that it remains available. To manage or provide content, you need an IPFS node; the extension and a public gateway do not replace one.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallRank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Availability is conditional: an IPFS-aware client can retrieve content when at least one reachable node is providing it. A CID identifies the requested content, but does not guarantee that someone will continue to provide it. For content you want to keep available, use node tools to add and pin it, and maintain the node that provides it. See the IPFS persistence documentation for the role of pinning.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to expect from privacy and availability
- With a public gateway: the gateway is the network participant making the request for you, so it may see request metadata such as your IP address and the CID requested.
- With a local node: Companion can direct gateway requests to your local Kubo daemon, reducing reliance on a remote gateway. Running a node changes how you participate in the network; it does not by itself guarantee anonymity or that content is available.
- With either approach: a CID is not a promise of permanence. Retrieval depends on content being provided by at least one reachable participant.
Choose a public gateway when ease of access matters and you accept the operator’s role. Choose a local node when you want local IPFS integration or content-management capabilities and are willing to install and run node software.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
